Removing weld seam in tubing

[k0ua]

I never really knew how to do that before. I am getting smarter every day I tell 'ya!

 

[Gordon Gould]

Neat ideas and methods in that video and it's easy to watch too. I have used the file method and bought some special tubing with the weld removed at a premium price. His simple tools seem to work good. Thanks for posting.

gg

 

[Imold]

Thanks for the video.




Jim.

 

[Mace Canute]

I remember a machinist by the nom de plume of weirdscience a long time ago posted on Activity Stream - The Home Shop Machinist & Machinist's Workshop Magazine's BBS his method for cleaning up the weld inside tubing and it involved basically the same method but more refined. GMTA?

Regardeless, it's doable and clever and can be a real money and time saver. Thanks for posting it, k0ua.

 

[k0ua]

You guys are welcome. I found it interesting and possibly could save you some money for just a little work and some materials.

 

[sodamo]

Very informative, thanks

 

[TractorGuy]

Nothing wrong with his method but I don't see myself spending the time to build a tool every time. As he said the weld is never in the same place.

I've done this with a file or a long nose grinder. I usually use the Long Shaft Die grinder from HF to get as deep as I can then finish with a file if I need to.

What surprises me the most is every local metal fabricator/supplier I have gone to says they just use 2-1/2" x 3/16" wall tube for the outer piece. No way I want that much slop in a receiver. I buy 1/4" wall tube and remove the weld.

 

[LouNY]

Very interesting video, quite informative.

 

[BukitCase]

Video was interesting, thanks;
For 2" receivers they actually make female receiver tube - it's .030" over 2.5" tube, smooth inside. So 2.530" OD, 2.030" ID; A little more expensive per #, but not THAT much. My local steel supplier stocks it, free delivery for orders over $100 (and yes, one stick IS free delivery @ 151 pounds)

YMMV, but with 2 tractors and a hoe I make a LOT of "tinker toys" with that material and 2" x .250" wall... Steve

 

[Sodo]

With a chisel you can easily peel up a couple inches of seam from each side.
Then file the little bit in the center.

Of all those methods I'd get a chisel like the one he had.
Or grind it one-sided myself.

free delivery for orders over $100 (and yes, one stick IS free delivery @ 151 pounds)

Steve if you have 20 feet I'm coming to your house next time i need it. :cool2:

I've been buying the 18" receiver tube at Harbor freight for $16 and it makes 2 or 3 receivers.
Class III 18 in. x 2 in. Standard Receiver Tube